TNAG-2675-FCO40-3872-Hong-Kong-garrison-withdrawal-plan-1993 — Page 127

29.

DRAFT

SECRET UK EYES A

Current HQ BFHK plans envisage HQ 48 Gurkha Infantry Brigade and

Land Forces Hong Kong remaining operational until December 1996;

although its size will reduce by then, commensurate with its role and

other reductions of the Garrison. As the Army Single Service HQ it

will be responsible for implementing the detail of the HQBF Hong Kong

Garrison Withdrawal Plan, and conducting the practical management and

handover of the defence estate.

30. The RN and RAF HQS have recently been subject to external audit

and approval. These HQS could remain in being until 1997 and will be

closely involved in the planning and execution of the rundown of their

respective organisations.

REINFORCEMENT PLANS

31. JTP 30. Reductions in force levels and equipment stocks in

Theatre will necessitate the amendment and expansion of the Hong Kong

reinforcement plan (JTP 30). In future, it is proposed that all unit

equipment (less general purpose vehicles) and combat supplies required

by reinforcing units should accompany the units by air. The consequent

increased requirement for air movement will need to be calculated, and

an assessment made by MOD D of D Log (Mov) on the likely availability

of air assets for this task. The importance of the airhead to the

success of JTP 30 requires at least one suitable airhead additional to

Kai Tak to be identified. The enhancement of JTP 30 would allow

reductions in stock levels in Hong Kong, substantially easing the

17

SECRET UK EYES A

DRAFT